Out of the Bluegrass is an acoustic music group performing a wide range of musical styles including pop, bluegrass, jazz, swing, blues and more. Originally starting out as a trio under the name Scioto Furnace, they have performed in the Capital District area for nearly four years at nightclubs, coffee houses, festivals and private parties. The recent addition of Peter Conklin on mandolin and vocals has added new depth and possibilities to their music. They play fun, upbeat music and have something to offer to all music fans!
Jeff Belding - guitar and vocals
Peter Conklin - mandolin and vocals
Mac Petrequin - banjo, resophonic guitar and vocals
Bert Wilson - upright bass
Jeff has studied at the Boston Conservatory, the New England Conservatory and the College of Saint Rose. He is an award winning multi-instrumentalist and plays mandolin, fiddle, banjo and bass as well as guitar. His background in jazz, folk and classical music is evident in Out of the Bluegrass's music. Jeff has been a music instructor in the region for over 25 years.
Mac got started with the banjo in the styles of Earl Scruggs and Bill Keith. He has performed in several bluegrass bands, playing the upright bass. Most recently he has added the resophonic guitar to his repertoire.
At the age of fifteen, Peter started electric bass lessons with Jeff Belding. Some years later, he caught the bluegrass bug while learning the Beaumont Rag on acoustic guitar. Fast-forward 30 years and Peter has now caught the mandolin bug. Peter plays regularly with the Hudson Valley Bluegrass Association as well as with Out of the Bluegrass.
Bert has studied the bass privately under Jeff Belding and has studied music at Schenectady County Community College. His influences include jazz and bluegrass music styles.
| Laborin | Autumn Leaves |
| No Expectations | Columbus Stockade Blues |
| Devils Dream | Kenningham |
| Tea For One |
Out of the Bluegrass is available for private parties, weddings and other occasions. Contact Bert at (518)399-8670 or send an email.
